T.L. Handy honors Benecke, Terwilliger

Mary Lou Benecke and Mark Terwilliger have been named the T.L. Handy High School Distinguished Alumni for 2008.

Benecke graduated from the former Handy High School in 1979. She is a state government affairs manager and executive speech writer for Williams Township-based Dow Corning Corp.

Benecke earned her bachelor's degree in journalism and public health education.

She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce, past communications chairwoman for the Midland United Way campaign, a member of the American Chemical Society, volunteer script writer for the Bijou Orchestra, and president of the women's service group at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, where she also teaches Sunday school.

Terwilliger is a 1984 T.L. Handy graduate. He is a professor of mathematics and computer science at Lake Superior State University in Sault St. Marie.

Terwilliger earned his bachelor's degree in computer and mathematical science from Lake Superior State College, his master's degree in computer science from Michigan State University, and his Ph.D. in computer science from Western Michigan University.

He is past chairman of the School of Mathematics and Computer Science and head tennis coach at Lake Superior State University. He is the author of numerous academic articles and the recipient of several professional awards. His community service involves coaching youth basketball and baseball.